A lady seen from behind

This oil study of a lady seen from behind belongs to Luca Carlevarijs's extensive series of figure studies made as preparatory material for his Venetian view paintings. Carlevarijs (1663-1730) was the founder of Venetian veduta painting, predating and influencing both Canaletto and Guardi. These small figure studies, depicting the varied social types of Venice, were painted from life and then inserted into his architectural views to animate the scenes.

The figure is rendered with quick, confident brushwork capturing the costume's silhouette and color against a neutral ground. The study prioritizes the overall form and color relationship over facial detail, as the figure was intended for distant placement in larger views.